O empreendedorismo feminino e o desenvolvimento sustentável em comunidades rurais: O Caso de Luciana Balbino na Chã de Jardim, Areia/PB.

Abstract

Female and community entrepreneurship in rural areas is an innovative capacity for economic and social growth, driving gender equality and enhancing local communities. This paper aims to analyze the entrepreneurial trajectory of Luciana Balbino and her role in the transformation of the Chã de Jardim community, located in the municipality of Areia, Paraíba. Through a case study, we seek to understand how social entrepreneurship can be an effective tool to combat rural exodus and promote local development. Through ADESCO (Association for the Sustainable Development of the Chã de Jardim Community), Luciana mobilized the community in significant projects, such as the revitalization of the community association, the creation and improvement of the ecological trail in the pau-ferro forest, and the implementation of sustainable tourism initiatives, which generated income for the residents. The methodological approach is based on a case study that analyzes Luciana's entrepreneurial actions, the socioeconomic impact of her initiatives, and the dilemma she experienced, caused by a rural phenomenon, and therefore choosing between: remaining in her community and fully dedicating herself to transforming the local reality so that everyone can have a dignified life without having to leave the rural area, or following the migratory flow and moving to large urban centers, with predetermined job opportunities, quality of life, and financial opportunities. Her decision, however, triggered a significant transformation in her community. Thus, this case highlights the relevance of entrepreneurship as a path to social transformation and the empowerment of women, especially in rural communities, demonstrating a model of sustainable local development that can be replicated in several locations in Brazil.